At the end of December, I wrote a column about how we sportsmen should consider passing on our hunting, fishing and trapping heritage to the next generation.

Wisconsin has about 100,000 fewer deer hunters today than it had in 2000, during the peak of the state’s harvest. Young people are busy with school sports, video games, social media and dating, and they are just not taking up hunting or fishing like they once did.

As sure as the arrival of robins, rain and green grass, the statewide combined Wisconsin DNR and Conservation Congress hearings are another sign of spring.

Some of the 44 conservation questions may touch most of us, including the topics of deer hunting and possible license fee increases, while others may be specific to a distant lake or river, and not interest us at all.

If you’ve been curled up under a blanket with a pile of snacks and a TV remote for much of this punishing winter, maybe it’s time to venture outside for a little fun and sun.

Outgoing Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources deer biologist Jeff Pritzl finally got to speak his mind bluntly after nearly 35 years with the agency, and his seasoned words were revealing and sensible.

Although he officially retired Feb. 2 because of his accumulation of paid time off, he turned over his state computer access and duties in December.

Government is rarely efficient, but when it happens, it is always a refreshing surprise.

At year’s end, I made the decision to buy and then apply for the transfer of a firearms silencer.

So did thousands — and perhaps tens of thousands — of gun owners and hunters in 42 states.

As 2025 winds down and a new year beckons, it’s a good time to reflect on your own successes and missteps both in the outdoors and in life.